Begin where you are—whether you're drawing from distant memory or picking up a pencil for the very first time.
This gently paced course is designed for anyone looking to explore botanical drawing. Through clear demonstrations, simple exercises, and supportive feedback, you'll learn step by step how to draw what you see in the plant world. Along the way, you’ll build your drawing skills and deepen your connection to nature.
Over the course of three sessions, you’ll explore the process of observing and documenting plants.
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s presence. This practice can help you become more mindful, curious, and connected to the natural world. As you develop your observational skills, you’ll naturally become more confident in your drawing.
Each week, I’ll provide a selection of botanical specimens for you to choose from. Start small. Observe closely. Take notes. Create simple sketches—or jump right into drawing on good paper. In Weeks 2 and 3, continue adding new observations, gradually building a rich composition that weaves together multiple botanical elements.
There’s no pressure to create a masterpiece. Use pencil, pen, colored pencil—whatever suits you. Add shading, labels, or even color. This is your composition, and your own style will emerge through the process.
The key is to keep returning.
By engaging consistently over the three weeks, you’ll sharpen your eye, become more aware of seasonal changes, and begin to notice subtle effects of the environment and climate. Most importantly, you’ll start developing your personal artistic vision.
My goal is to make botanical drawing feel approachable and enjoyable—something that anyone can do. Let’s begin.
After a 30-year career as a graphic designer, art director, and creative director, including a 25-year career at the University of Colorado, Michael Campbell has embarked on a second career as a botanical and nature artist. In 2010, he was awarded a certificate in Botanical Art from the Denver Botanic Gardens School of Botanical Art & Illustration. In November 2018 he completed studies in their Advanced Diploma Program, one of few students to receive the degree. For the past two decades, he has been an adjunct instructor at the University of Colorado Boulder, Regis University, and Front Range Community College. He is currently an artist Instructor at the School of Botanical Art & Illustration at the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Mondays, December 1, 8, 15 | 10 am - 1 pm | $118
You may also like the following events from Boulder JCC:
Also check out other
Arts events in Boulder,
Fine Arts events in Boulder,
Workshops in Boulder.
